Lords-in-waiting (male) or baronesses-in-waiting (female) are peers who hold office in the Royal Household of the sovereign of the United Kingdom. In the official Court Circular they are styled "Lord in Waiting" or "Baroness in Waiting".
Political appointments
Most baronesses and lords-in-waiting serve as government whips in the House of Lords. Being members of the government, they are appointed by the sovereign on the recommendation of the Prime Minister and invariably relinquish their position when there is a change of government. Currently, there are nine lords and baronesses-in-waiting, who serve as junior whips in the House of Lords: ==Non-political appointments==
Non-political appointments
Alongside the political appointees two non-political lords-in-waiting are always appointed, Those currently serving in this capacity are: ==Additional appointments==
Additional appointments
Any additional appointees are termed extra lords or baronesses-in-waiting. Those currently serving in this capacity are: ==Permanent lords-in-waiting==
Permanent lords-in-waiting
Permanent lords-in-waiting are retired senior officials of the Royal Household. Those serving in this capacity are: ==References==